Will Smith To Play Aladdin’s Genie In Upcoming Live Action ‘Aladdin’ Film

Will Smith will play Aladdin’s Genie in the live action version of the Disney classic.

The actor was previously in talks about the role with the studio. His casting was officially confirmed at the Disney D23 Expo in California today. The actor will take over the voice role previously filled by Robin Williams in the original 1992 animated Aladdin.

Aladdin was the highest-grossing film of the year in 1992, and won Academy Awards for best score and best song for “A Whole New World.”

Smith is also rumored to be in talks for a major role in another upcoming Disney remake, this time for the film Dumbo. It will be directed by Tim Burton and star great actors such as Colin Farrell, Michael Keaton, Eva Green and Danny DeVito.

Naomi Scott will play Princess Jasmine in Aladdin while Mena Massoud has been announced as the titular character. The film marks the first big screen role for Massoud who reportedly beat out 2000 other actors.

“So honored & grateful for the opportunity to help bring this magical story to life once again. Let’s get to work,” Massoud tweeted Saturday.